ARLINGTON, Va. — NACDS president and CEO Steven Anderson on Monday praised President Joe Biden’s announcement regarding the expansion of the Federal Retail Pharmacy Program.

Steven Anderson

 

“Our nation’s pharmacies are uniquely situated to turn vaccine doses into vaccination appointments – efficiently, equitably and conveniently,” Anderson said in a statement. “We appreciate President Biden’s leadership and historic announcement today that the Administration is more than doubling the number of pharmacies in the Federal Retail Pharmacy Program from 17,000 to nearly 40,000. With a sufficient vaccine allocation, the American people can benefit fully from the fact that 90 percent of Americans live within five miles of a pharmacy.”

Anderson’s statement continued: “Pharmacies and pharmacy teams have worked extremely hard to prepare well for an efficient vaccination effort. They are prioritizing equity by reaching the underserved, by reaching races hit particularly hard by the pandemic, and by reaching rural areas. At every turn, they have adapted to priorities such as the vaccination of seniors, first-responders and teachers. Pharmacies and pharmacy teams also are succeeding in creating a patient experience that lives up to the trust of all Americans – and that is a key to maximizing vaccine confidence and fully restoring hope, health, wellness and livelihoods.

“NACDS has emphasized that pharmacies conservatively can meet the demand for 100 million vaccinations in 30 days if supplies are available. We look forward to continuing to work with the Biden Administration, with the states, and with local leaders for the ultimate benefit of our nation and of each individual.”